Departure from the Croix d'Anselme car park located on the D14 road between the villages of Collobrière and Cogolin.
(S/E) 100 m after leaving the D14 for the road that climbs to the Chartreuse de la Verne, take the path below that runs alongside this road. You will also follow a stream, which will probably be dry in summer.
(1) Cross the ford on the right and go through the red and white barrier. Follow the track as it winds upwards until you reach a junction.
(2) At the bend, turn left and continue along the shaded track until you reach another intersection.
(3) It is easy and tempting to continue straight ahead, but follow the road to the left for a few metres until you reach a path that climbs up to your right (see Practical Information for alternative route).
(4) Turn right for the most difficult part of the hike. A very steep hill for about 1 km.
To avoid the steepness, you can follow the track, but this will inevitably lengthen the route.
At the top of the hill, turn right and continue along the track until you reach an intersection.
(5) Take the path furthest to the left, almost opposite, and descend towards the Chartreuse de la Verne.
(6) Continue eastwards and take the gently ascending tarmac track. At the top, continue straight ahead, ignoring the road that branches off to the right.
(7) There is a viewpoint where you can admire the Môle reservoir below. Continue along the Sivadières track until you reach another intersection.
(8) Continue straight ahead, staying on the same track until you reach another intersection.
(9) Continue straight ahead and ignore the road on the right that would take you back to La Chartreuse. Follow the Route de la Crête de la Verne.
(10) A path leads up to the weather observatory, but a gate prevents access. This is a good place for a picnic as there are no more climbs after this, and you can enjoy a glimpse of the sea in good weather.
(11) On your right, you should see one or more cairns marking the start of a path. Continue along the same road. A little further on, ignore the track that branches off to the right (alternative route, see Practical Information).
(12) Turn right and walk through a pleasant shaded passage before starting the descent. At the bottom, turn left and follow the track. At the bend in the road, you will have a superb view of the Plateau Lambert, a huge meadow in the middle of the forest. Continue along the track, skirting a pine plantation, until you reach the corner of the Plateau Lambert.
(13) You will find yourself in front of a stand of eucalyptus trees. If you continue a little further along the trail, you will see a gate on the right, allowing you to get a closer look at the menhirs.
(14) (Optional): Walk through the trees to reach a stream with a waterfall. It's the perfect place to dip your feet and let your dogs drink!
Then retrace your steps and go around the plateau, passing under the eucalyptus trees to reach the forest house.
(15) Admire the enormous chestnut tree stump as you pass, then take the track behind the house. Continue, ignoring a track on the left.
(16) When you reach this intersection, turn right onto the Piste des Pountches, which descends. Continue until you reach a tarmac road.
(17) At the road, turn left and walk for about 30 minutes to reach the car park (S/E).
.